George Orwell’s 6 Rules for Writers
From 'Politics and the English Language' (Horizon,1946)
I actually follow Orwell’s rules when I write. I edit and edit again. He knew how to keep your attention and that is what I aim for. This is good advice for anyone- Here are his 6 rules:
1. Never use a metaphor, simile, or other figure of speech which you are used to seeing in print.
Avoid using tired or over-used phrases. Do not write, “low hanging fruit”when you can write that we do the easier chores first. Don’t write, “think outside the box”…say “come up with something innovative and original.”
2. Never use a long word where a short one will do.
This is a core principle. Do not say ‘endeavor’ when you can use the word ‘try’. Short words increase the speed of comprehension - we don’t have to work at understanding or deciphering.
3. If it is possible to cut a word out, always cut it out.
People think they will sound smarter if they use a lot of words. Orwell says that there is nothing intelligent about using excessive words. In this case, “Less really is more”.
4. Never use the passive where you can use the active.
This rule is the one that I have to practice. Write, “I bought the begonias.” Do not write, “The begonias were bought by me.” Do not write, “The book has been published by the Institute of Botanical Delights.” Write, “The Institute of Botanical Delights has published the book.”
5. Never use a foreign phrase, a scientific word or a jargon word if you can think of an everyday English equivalent.
I am trying to think of an example of this…do not use the word ‘aficionado’. Say instead, that he was a fan of…
6. Break any of these rules sooner than say anything barbarous.
I take that to mean, “break the first 5 rules before you write something really bad.” Or maybe it means none of these rules are binding. I like that.
So keep it short and to the point and avoid sounding pedantic. Uh Oh! I just broke a rule!
So keep it short and to the point and avoid sounding like a know-it-all. Is that better?
Keep it concise and avoid sounding like a know-it-all! Even shorter.
These are useful reminders! Orwell worked hard at his writing. He's a good example to us too, in that respect.